Postdoctoral Investigator - AOP&E

Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution is recruiting a highly ambitious and motivated Postdoctoral Investigator to join the Chemical Sensors Lab in the Applied Ocean Physics & Engineering Department with a focus on the analysis of chemical sensor data. This is a temporary, full-time, exempt position, and is eligible for benefits. 

The Postdoctoral Investigator will analyze and interpret oceanographic chemical sensor data from the laboratory and field, report on results through data summarization and visualization, and present results through the submission of peer-reviewed publications. This role will focus primarily on the processing and analysis of data collected from in situ chemical sensors in locations ranging from the deep ocean to the Arctic with a focus on sensors for the measurement of methane, carbon dioxide, and microplastics. This will be primarily computer-based position with a potential for some field work.

The successful candidate will be expected to demonstrate data processing capabilities, the ability to develop publication-quality figures, have exceptional writing skills and be able to apply rigorous scientific thinking to these tasks. The successful applicant will have a PhD in oceanography, ocean engineering, optical engineering, chemistry, environmental science, or a related science or engineering field, must have significant experience with data processing using Python, MatLab, R or the equivalent, must have excellent writing, editing, proofreading, and verbal communications skills, be able to translate complex scientific information into clear text, be flexible and organized, be able to work both independently and as part of a research group, have excellent time management and multitasking skills, and have experience and interest in writing peer-reviewed articles.  This position will not include Sea Duty.

The Institution has a top-rated postdoctoral program (www.whoi.edu/postdoctoral/) that supports a dynamic postdoctoral community with formal mentoring and career guidance programs. While the primary focus of the work will be in research, the Postdoctoral Investigator will have the opportunity to participate in educational and outreach activities associated with their project.

Application is via online forms (https://careers.whoi.edu/how-to-apply/) that include specific fields for information, as well as for uploading of a research statement*; a complete curriculum vitae; up to three relevant publications; and a cover letter that contains the contact information of at least three references.

*Research statements should consist of the following: a concise statement (no longer than four pages) that addresses (1) research interests to be pursued at WHOI, (2) anticipated career plans, with an explanation of how postdoctoral research at WHOI would complement an applicant’s existing experience and preparation, and (3) interests in, experience with, and/or planned commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion in research, teaching, and/or service in their career and (4; optional) life-impact statement that describes any significant life circumstance that has impacted productivity, trajectory, or performance (e.g., COVID-19 pandemic, illness, caretaking responsibilities; 1-page).  

The preferred start date for this position is 1 December 2023. This posting will remain open until filled.

To advance the goals of long-term broadening of participation in ocean science and engineering, we are particularly interested in attracting applicants from groups historically underrepresented in oceanography. Diversity, equity, and inclusion are integral to WHOI’s academic excellence and leadership in the global scientific community. WHOI stands committed to a sustained effort to advance inclusion and belonging throughout all levels of the Institution.

Preference for in person. Hybrid and fully remote will also be considered.

• Data processing capabilities
  
  
• Ability to develop publication-quality figures
  
  
• Exceptional writing skills
  
  
• Applies rigorous scientific thinking to tasks listed above

• Education: PhD in oceanography, ocean engineering, optical engineering, chemistry, environmental science, or a related science or engineering field
  
  

• Previous Experience Desired: Significant experience with data processing using Python, MatLab, R or the equivalent, must have excellent writing, editing, proofreading, and verbal communications skills, be able to translate complex scientific information into clear text, be flexible and organized, be able to work both independently and as part of a research group, have excellent time management and multitasking skills, and have experience and interest in writing peer-reviewed articles

WHOI has a mandatory COVID-19 vaccination policy in effect for anyone who will be staying in WHOI housing or participating in a cruise, where you must register your full vaccination status (vaccination plus booster) in order to begin your appointment. The registration process is confidential and entails submitting your official vaccination records to our confidential email address coronavirusqa@whoi.edu or requesting to engage in the interactive exemption process for either a medical or religious reason. Please see WHOI’s COVID-19 policy page for more information. 

None

Sea Duty: May work at least 8 hours per day and, at times in excess of 12 hours per day, 7 days per week. Sleep and work hours can deviate from those on land. May be expected to work on watch schedule (such as 8 hours on and 8 hours off or 12 hours on and 8 hours off) for all or part of a cruise or to work as hours are needed to accomplish the planned work. May need to travel during holidays and for long distances to and from foreign ports. May experience rudimentary living and working conditions, with shared and basic living quarters and laboratories. May experience bad or extreme weather conditions, including heavy seas, winter weather or hot, tropical weather. Work on deck may occur in both hot and cold conditions around the clock. Sea conditions will lead to active ship motion. Should be able to climb steep and vertical ladders and able to enter and exit compartments through hatches, doors, and sills. Should be able to carry heavy gear and participate in the loading and unloading of the ship as well as in the activities on deck and in the labs during the cruise. Shipboard environment may include: confined areas, shared sleeping quarters (berths) and bathroom facilities, small and basic berthing, fixed meal times and basic menus. Modest levels of heating, cooling, ventilation, and illumination, limited or no email and internet access and limited off-duty and recreational facilities (library, lounge, movies). May be exposed to potential allergens and irritants, including paint fumes. May experience constant and intermittent loud noises, and slippery and uneven surfaces.  ***Sea Duty not expected in this position***